ALAMEDA — It may seem a bit early for Christmas activities, but children and adults alike are happy to be back on the ice at the Little Ice Rink.

The skating area opened Nov. 8 at Alameda South Shore Center, near Petco, and will be in business through Jan. 19.

“Since we helped bring the original rink to Alameda four years ago, it’s been such a success and so well received by Alamedans,” said Carrie Ewing, vice president of operations for Perforce Software, a sponsor of the rink. “Naturally, we wanted to be a part of it this year and want to do so as long as hopefully (Alameda South Shore Center owner) Jamestown continues to support it.”

The rink is about 4,100 square feet in size and accommodates up to 240 ice skaters. Guests can rent skates and even take a spin with skating aide “Bobby” the seal.

“It’s packed like this on weekends and holidays,” said Harrison Peters, general manager of the Ice America rink, on Sunday. Peters grew up in Canada, where he learned to skate and began working at rinks.

Not everyone can grow up near the ice, of course, and many novice skaters like some help from Bobby.

“The seals are a hot item. Lots of people want them,” Peters said.

Some guests take to the ice for a spin once or twice during the holidays while others come more frequently.

“Every year, I bring the kids,” said Mark Little, an Alameda resident and father. “I buy a season pass, and we get our money’s worth.”

Little grew up on the East Coast, where he said he “skated quite a bit.” But he doesn’t give his daughter Olive, 10, or son Finn, 8, any tips.

“I just want them to get out there on the ice and go for it,” he said.

For those looking to enjoy a bit of warmth on a cold day, Panera Bread is selling coffee, hot chocolate and cookies at the rink on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

“I like being out here watching all the skaters,” said Holly Best from Panera. “It’s a happy environment and a good break for everyone.”

In addition to snacks on weekends, the rink offers guests themed events, too. Monday is Ugly Sweater Day, Wednesday is ’80s Night, Thursday means Thursday Night Fever, and Friday features free performances from the Oakland Sharks Ice team from 7:45 to 8 p.m.

The Bay Area’s hockey team mascot, the San Jose Sharkie, will stop by the Alameda rink from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. on Nov. 30 and Dec. 21. He’s already made one visit to town for the Nov. 8 opening, which included an appearance by professional figure skater Michael Chack.

People of all skating levels flock to rink, Peters said, “because it’s something different. Really. It’s an outdoor rink right next to the water in California. You can’t get any better than that.”

IF YOU GO
The Little Ice Rink is open from 3 to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday and from noon to 10 p.m. from Friday through Sunday, as well as on holidays at Alameda South Shore Center, 523 South Shore Center W, Alameda. Tickets for skating sessions and skate rentals are $10 to $15.

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